In House Finance. Houston, Texas. 2005 Ford Taurus.
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Previous-generation Ford Taurus
The most recent Taurus generation ran from 2000-'06. Although the basic body shell was identical to the previous Taurus, this version dispensed with many of the oval-themed components used before and the result was a more attractive car.
A pair of 3.0-liter V6 engines (155 hp and 200 hp) were the engine choices and a four-speed automatic remained the lone transmission. Four trim levels were offered: base LX, midlevel SE models and luxury-themed SES and SEL. Even the LX provided air-conditioning and power windows, while springing for the SEL meant you got the 200-horse V6, an in-dash six-CD player and automatic climate control. By the end of this generation, just two trims remained (SE and SEL) and the wagon was dropped. Also, in a fit of American carmaker rationale, the better of the two engines (the 200-hp V6) was discontinued as well.
In an Edmunds.com 2000 family sedan comparison test, the Ford Taurus finished a respectable third out of nine cars, thanks to strong performance (it had the 200-hp V6), solid handling and ride dynamics, and a user-friendly cabin. Six years down the road, however, it was easily eclipsed by more competent rivals from Japan and Korea.
That said, general consumer comments tend to be favorable. A combination of low price, decent reliability, a roomy cabin and plenty of features make a used Taurus a respectable choice for family-car buyers on a tight budget.